Media Coverage

Nov 15, 2007

Dear Editor:

I'm very lucky.

Every year, local nonprofit NewBridge Services hosts a Thanksgiving dinner for 100 men and women with mental illness. As a volunteer for this event, I look at all the faces in the room as they anticipate the meal soon to be delivered to their tables. When the food arrives, we give thanks as a group. Some people continue to bow their head, eyes closed, after the convocation. Then eating begins. There is not a lot of conversation. It is quiet as plastic forks poke turkey and stuffing. People eat quietly, reverently, without looking up. It is clear they are focusing on this meal, savoring every bite and the bounteous choices before them.

It is the day before Thanksgiving. And for many of these people, this is their Thanksgiving dinner. If there are leftovers, they will take home a plate that they can eat on Thanksgiving Day.

This event is largely dependent on the kindness of people who donated $10 to NewBridge toward a meal, or delivered a pumpkin pie, or spent the day setting tables, serving food and washing pots and pans.

So I said I was lucky. And as you read this you might think I said that because I know I will be eating with the people I love in a warm home with a cozy fire and real silverware. And that's true, but it's not the whole truth.

I'm lucky because every year, I get to bear witness to this event, which reaffirms in my mind the importance of giving thanks for all that we have, and giving to those who are in need. And no matter how chilly the day is, I drive home after dinner moved and heartwarmed by this genuine experience.

This holiday season, I urge everyone-man, woman and child-to give back in some way to a cause in which you believe. NewBridge Services is one of many causes that depend upon the kindness of friends and strangers to bridge the gap between sustenance and success. Get involved. Get your family involved, and give back. It will be, without a doubt, the best and most rewarding part of your holiday.

Sincerely,

Jeff Gillman
Pompton Plains, NJ